At the 2014 Paris Mondial de l'Automobile Lamborghini has unveiled its first plug-in hybrid (PHEV): the Lamborghini Asterion LPI 910-4. Asterion defines a solution to significantly reducing CO2 emissions through technologies available today. In addition, it also offers the unique Lamborghini driving feel with superior power. The car has a pure electric range of 50 km.

Asterion LPI 910-4 returns a 4,12 l/100 km fuel consumption on the combined cycle (NEDC) with exceptional CO2 emissions of 98 g/km. The car's engine, the V10 5.2 liter FSI one, is based on a monocoque made entirely of carbon fibre. The unit is located longitudinally as a mid-engine and is coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, located behind the engine at the rear transaxle. The lithium battery is placed in the central tunnel area.

The hybrid architecture of the model is achieved via an electric motor which includes an integrated starter motor and generator (ISG), placed between the V10 engine and the double clutch gearbox. There are also two electric motors at the front axle fed by the ISG power with a torque vectoring function. The system allows the car two driving modes: a hybrid and pure electric drive mode.

V10 5.2 l mid-engine can generate up to 610 horsepower (449 kW) and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of maximum torque. The three electric motors add further 300 hp (220 kW), which means the total hybrid power is achievable to a maximum of 910 hp (669 kW). The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h happens in only 3.0 seconds. The top hybrid/combined speed is 320 km/h.

The exterior of the car is decided in Blue Elektra glittered colour. The Asterion has clearly defined lines, the front end is produced as a single component, giving the Asterion a dynamic look, while the headlights are realized in materials such as forged carbon and titanium.

At the rear, we immediately see the remarkable rear lights, including a grid covering two radiators, and a clear separation between body colour and black parts. A transparent engine cover is comprised of three hexagonal glasses that turn according to the engine driving mode: pure electric, hybrid power or pure thermal engine power. The vehicle runs on Pirelli tyres fitted with 20" and 21" rims in carbon components.

Inside, the minimal contemporary interior of the Asterion reflects the exterior design. The two seats are positioned higher than those in Lamborghini super sports cars. They are wrapped in Extensive Bianco Celaeno (ivory) and Marrone Attis (brown) leather. Materials such as aluminium and forged carbon fibre, as well as titanium are also visible inside.

Asterion's steering wheel includes three buttons from which the driver selects his engine driving mode: Zero – for zero emissions/full electric; I for 'Ibrido' (hybrid); and T for 'Termico (thermal) power. The portable tablet helps in managing the climate control and other functions including GPS and in-car infotainment.

And if you wonder why this model is dubbed with this name, well Lamborghini says that LP stands for 'longitudinale posteriore', which is the position of the conventional engine, I stands for 'ibrido', 910 for the system power and 4 for the permanent 4WD system. In addition, the vehicle is inspired by the Asterion – the name of the mythical Minotaur, a hybrid figure and symbolic cross-breed.

Lamborghini Asterion LPI 910-4 (2014) - picture 1 of 3
Lamborghini Asterion LPI 910-4 (2014) - picture 2 of 3
Lamborghini Asterion LPI 910-4 (2014) - picture 3 of 3

Source: Lamborghini